Definition

1. Verb:
   • To formally question a government minister or official about policy or government business, typically in a parliamentary setting. This is a formal procedure where a member of the legislature demands an explanation from the executive branch.

Usage

• The verb "interpellate" is used in formal, political, and parliamentary contexts. It describes a specific, official action within a legislative body.
• It is a transitive verb, requiring a direct object (the person being questioned).
• Example Sentence Structure:

Examples

• Verb:
  • The opposition MP interpellated the finance minister regarding the new tax bill.
  • During the session, several deputies interpellated the prime minister on the handling of the crisis.

Advanced Usage

• "To be interpellated" (Passive Voice): To be the subject of a formal parliamentary questioning.
  • The minister was interpellated for over an hour on the details of the budget.
• "Interpellation" (Noun): The act or process of interpellating.
  • The interpellation led to a heated debate in the chamber.

Variants and Related Words

• Interpellation (n): The formal act of questioning.
• Interpellator (n): The person who poses the formal questions.

Synonyms

• Question formally: To ask questions in an official, structured manner.
• Cross-examine: To question closely, especially in a formal setting (though this is more common in legal contexts).

Notes on Meaning

• This term is highly specific to parliamentary systems and political science. It is not used in everyday conversation.
• It implies a level of official accountability and is a key mechanism of legislative oversight over the executive branch.

Verb

1. question formally about policy or government business